Throughout the SMILE mission the satellite will be bombarded by radiation which gradually damages the focal plane devices and degrades their performance.In order to understand the changes of the CCD370s within the sof...Throughout the SMILE mission the satellite will be bombarded by radiation which gradually damages the focal plane devices and degrades their performance.In order to understand the changes of the CCD370s within the soft X-ray Imager,an initial characterisation of the devices has been carried out to give a baseline performance level.Three CCDs have been characterised,the two flight devices and the flight spa re.This has been carried out at the Open University in a bespo ke cleanroom measure ment facility.The results show that there is a cluster of bright pixels in the flight spa re which increases in size with tempe rature.However at the nominal ope rating tempe rature(-120℃) it is within the procure ment specifications.Overall,the devices meet the specifications when ope rating at -120℃ in 6 × 6 binned frame transfer science mode.The se rial charge transfer inefficiency degrades with temperature in full frame mode.However any charge losses are recovered when binning/frame transfer is implemented.展开更多
Meteorological droughts occur when there is deficiency in rainfall;i.e. rainfall availability is below some acclaimed normal values. Hence, the greater challenge is to be able to obtain suitable methods for assessing ...Meteorological droughts occur when there is deficiency in rainfall;i.e. rainfall availability is below some acclaimed normal values. Hence, the greater challenge is to be able to obtain suitable methods for assessing drought occurrence, its onset or initiation and termination. Thus, an attempt was made in this paper to evaluate the performance of Standardised Precipitation Index (SPI) and Standardised Precipitation Anomaly Index (SPAI) to characterise drought in Northern Nigeria for purposes of comparison and eventual adoption of probable candidate index for the development of an Early Warning System. The findings indicated that despite the fact that the annual timescale may be long, it can be employed to obtain information on the temporal evolution of drought especially, regional behaviour. However, monthly timescale can be more appropriate if emphasis is on evaluating the effects of drought in situations relating to water supply, agriculture and groundwater abstractions. The SPAI can be employed for periodic rainfall time series though;it accentuates drought signatures and may not necessarily dampen high fluctuations due to implications of high climatic variability considering the stochastic nature and state transition of drought phenomena. On the other hand, the temporal evolution of SPI and SPAI were not coherent at different temporal accumulations with differences in fluctuations. However, despite the differences between the SPI and SPAI, generally at some timescales, for instance, 6-month accumulation, both spatial and temporal distributions of drought characteristics were seemingly consistent. In view of the observed shortcomings of both indices, especially the SPI, the Standardised Nonstationary Precipitation Index (SnsPI) should be looked into and too, other indexes that take into consideration the implications of global warming by incorporating potential evapotranspiration may be deemed more suitable for drought studies in Northern Nigeria.展开更多
The filler-bitumen interaction mechanism is one of the most essential phases for comprehending the asphalt mixture's performance.However,despite numerous studies,in-depth knowledge of filler-bitumen reciprocity at...The filler-bitumen interaction mechanism is one of the most essential phases for comprehending the asphalt mixture's performance.However,despite numerous studies,in-depth knowledge of filler-bitumen reciprocity at a microscale level is yet to be ascertained.The goal of this research is to gain a better understanding of the fillerbitumen microscale interaction in terms of the synergy and coaction between the physicochemical and rheological performance of mastics due to filler inclusions.The rheological properties of two sustainable mastics,dolomite powder(DP)and lime kiln dust(LKD),together with a neat PEN 60/70 binder,were analysed based on a temperature sweep at elevated temperature conditions.Meanwhile,frequency sweep and multiple stress creep recovery(MSCR)tests were also conducted at pavement serviceability temperature using the dynamic shear rheometer(DSR).Physicochemical tests using a scanning electron microscope(SEM)and energy dispersive X-rays(EDX)were conducted to analyse the impact of parameters such as particle shape,grain size,texture,and chemical compositions.The DSR test results showcased how the incorporation of fillers in asphalt binder considerably improved the performance of the binder in terms of rutting and fatigue.Likewise,its strain and nonrecoverable compliance parameters were substantially reduced at higher filler and binder concentrations.Physical filler attributes of low rigden voids(R.V),high fineness modulus(FM),and high specific surface area(SSA)led to greater interfacial stiffness and elasticity in LKD mastics compared to DP mastics at different loading frequencies and temperature levels.The SEM/EDX results also indicated that the elemental calcium and carbon composition of each filler component,together with its grain morphology,strongly influenced its rheological performance.展开更多
Overhanging rock slopes(steeper than 90°) are typically avoided in rock engineering design, particularly where the scale of the slope exceeds the scale of fracturing present in the rock mass. This paper highlight...Overhanging rock slopes(steeper than 90°) are typically avoided in rock engineering design, particularly where the scale of the slope exceeds the scale of fracturing present in the rock mass. This paper highlights an integrated approach of designing overhanging rock slopes where the relative dimensions of the slope exceed the scale of fracturing and the rock mass failure needs to be considered rather than kinematic release of individual blocks. The key to the method is a simplified limit equilibrium(LE) tool that was used for the support design and analysis of a multi-faceted overhanging rock slope. The overhanging slopes required complex geometries with constantly changing orientations. The overhanging rock varied in height from 30 m to 66 m. Geomechanical modelling combined with discrete fracture network(DFN)representation of the rock mass was used to validate the rock mass strength assumptions and the failure mechanism assumed in the LE model. The advantage of the simplified LE method is that buttress and support design iterations(along with sensitivity analysis of design parameters) can be completed for various cross-sections along the proposed overhanging rock sections in an efficient manner, compared to the more time-intensive, sophisticated methods that were used for the initial validation. The method described presents the development of this design tool and assumptions made for a specific overhanging rock slope design. Other locations will have different geological conditions that can control the potential behaviour of rock slopes, however, the approach presented can be applied as a general guiding design principle for overhanging rock cut slope.展开更多
C-type lysozyme genes （Lyzls） belong to the class of lysozymes and are highly expressed in the testis and epididymis. The members Lyzl4 and Spaca3 have been reported to play a role in sperm-egg binding and fertilisa...C-type lysozyme genes （Lyzls） belong to the class of lysozymes and are highly expressed in the testis and epididymis. The members Lyzl4 and Spaca3 have been reported to play a role in sperm-egg binding and fertilisation in mice. However, the function of the remaining two mouse c-type lysozyme genes, Lyzll and Lyzl6, is still not clear. In the present study, we analysed the tissue expression and androgen-dependent expression of mouse c-type lysozyme genes and the possible contribution of human recombinant LYZL6 （rLYZL6） to immunity. The expression of Lyzlswas detected by RT-PCR, Western blots, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. The bacteriolytic activity of rLYZL6 was analysed by a colony-forming assay. In mice, the expression of Lyzlgenes was mainly in the testis and epididymis in a developmentally regulated manner and androgen- or testicular factor-regulated manner. Immunodetection revealed the presence of LYZL6 protein in primary spermatocytes and round spermatids of the testis and on the post-acrosomal area and midpiece of mature epididymal spermatozoa. The rLYZL6 protein exhibited antibacterial activity. From the results, Lyzls may play a role in mitochondrial function of spermatozoa and LYZL6 may contribute to the innate immunity of the male genital tract.展开更多
The feasibility of durian tree sawdust (DTS), coconut coir (CC) and oil palm empty fruit bunch (EFB) as low-cost biosorbents for the removal of Cu(II), Pb(II) and Zn(II) ions from aqueous solutions was investigated. T...The feasibility of durian tree sawdust (DTS), coconut coir (CC) and oil palm empty fruit bunch (EFB) as low-cost biosorbents for the removal of Cu(II), Pb(II) and Zn(II) ions from aqueous solutions was investigated. The effects of solution pH and initial metal concentration on adsorption capacity were examined in batch experiments. The affinity and the adsorption capacity of DTS, CC and EFB were evaluated. The adsorption behaviour of Cu(II), Pb(II) and Zn(II) ions onto DTS, CC and EFB was described using Freundlich and Langmuir isotherm models. The separation factor (RL) analysis suggests that the removal of metal ions onto three agricultural wastes studied was favourable. The maximum adsorption capacities (Q) estimated from the Langmuir isotherm model for Cu(II), Pb(II) and Zn(II) were 18.42, 20.37 and 22.78 mg/g for DTS, 18.38, 37.04 and 24.39 mg/g for CC, and 26.95, 37.59 and 21.19 mg/g for EFB, respectively. The characterisation studies were carried out using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectrometer (EDX) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer (FTIR). The surface morphology of the biosorbents changed significantly following interaction with metal ions. The primary adsorption mechanism was complexation between metal ions and binding sites of biosorbents. Both hydroxyl and amine groups are the main binding sites in DTS, CC and EFB.展开更多
The efficacy of coconut tree sawdust (CTS), eggshell (ES) and sugarcane bagasse (SB) as alternative low-cost biosorbents for the removal of Cu(II), Pb(II) and Zn(II) ions from aqueous solutions was investigated. Batch...The efficacy of coconut tree sawdust (CTS), eggshell (ES) and sugarcane bagasse (SB) as alternative low-cost biosorbents for the removal of Cu(II), Pb(II) and Zn(II) ions from aqueous solutions was investigated. Batch adsorption studies were carried out to evaluate the effects of solution pH and initial metal concentration on adsorption capacity. The optimum biosorption condition was found at pH 6.0, 0.1 g biomass dosage and at 90 min equilibrium time. The adsorption data were fitted to the Freundlich and Langmuir isotherm models. The adsorption capacity and affinity of CTS, ES and SB were evaluated. The Freundlich constant (n) and separation factor (RL) values suggest that the metal ions were favourably adsorbed onto biosorbents. The maximum adsorption capacities (Q) estimated from the Langmuir isotherm model for Cu(II), Pb(II) and Zn(II) were 3.89, 25.00 and 23.81 mg/g for CTS, 34.48, 90.90 and 35.71 mg/g for ES, and 3.65, 21.28 and 40.00 mg/g for SB, respectively. The characterisation studies were performed using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectrometer (EDX) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer (FTIR). Interaction with metal ions led to the formation of discrete aggregates on the biosorbents surface. The metal ions bound to the active sites of the biosorbents through either electrostatic attraction or complexation mechanism.展开更多
This thesis gives overview of the connotation of rural spatial structure,indicating 4 kinds of elements,namely nodus,passage,region and flow.Their spatial arrangement and interaction lead to the corresponding rural sp...This thesis gives overview of the connotation of rural spatial structure,indicating 4 kinds of elements,namely nodus,passage,region and flow.Their spatial arrangement and interaction lead to the corresponding rural spatial structure.This thesis also offers panorama of the related theoretical progress of intra-county and rural areas,indicating that the research theories of regional spatial structure at present,mainly focus on macroscopic region or urban space,but there is shortage of researches on county spatial structure,especially microscopic rural spatial structure.On such basis,4 kinds of theoretical models and characteristics of regional spatial structure have been introduced.We build analysis index system of rural structural elements on the basis of 4 elements,and conduct rural spatial structural analysis,taking Jinhu County as an example.The result shows that rural spatial structure in Jinhu County is still at stage of nucleus-cluster development and rural system is not so sound.In addition,the passage network system of infrastructure has not taken shape,and county economy presents diseconomy of scale.The spatial interaction and association among towns in Jinhu County are weak.The characteristic analysis model of spatial structure in this research can objectively reflect regional characteristic of spatial structure.展开更多
Rock types,pore structures and permeability are essential petrophysical outputs,and they contribute considerably to the highest degree of uncertainty in reservoir characterisation.These factors have a strong influence...Rock types,pore structures and permeability are essential petrophysical outputs,and they contribute considerably to the highest degree of uncertainty in reservoir characterisation.These factors have a strong influence on exploration and field development decisions.Core analysis is the best approach for estimating permeability,assigning rock types and characterising pore networks.Wireline logs are the most often employed method for estimating the parameters at each data point of reservoirs since there are more un-cored wells than cored wells.Artificial intelligence,on the other hand,is gaining popularity in the geosciences due to the ever-increasing complexity and volume of available subsurface data.This is also obvious in the demand for faster and more accurate interpretations in order to identify reservoir characteristics in increasingly difficult and complicated petroliferous basins.Artificial Neural Networks and Self-Organizing Maps are examples of machine learning approaches that can be used in both supervised and unsupervised modes for modelling and prediction.Eocene carbonates of Mukta oilfield are the major pay rocks of strong geological heterogeneity in terms of their porosity and permeability relationship with pore structures.This paper outlines a novel method of rock fabric classification,pore structure characterization,flow unit classification and robust reservoir permeability modelling based on an integrated approach that incorporates core measurements,log data and machine learning techniques.The pore structure has been characterised by the combination of conventional core,capillary pressure and nuclear magnetic resonance data.Artificial neural network has added an adequate benefit in accurate permeability modelling by utilizing the concepts of rock classifications and hydraulic flow units.展开更多
Power Cartridges are pyrotechnic devices where hot combustion gases utilized to do mechanical work for disruption of suspected Improvised Explosive Devices(IEDs). It plays a vital role either in destroying the suspici...Power Cartridges are pyrotechnic devices where hot combustion gases utilized to do mechanical work for disruption of suspected Improvised Explosive Devices(IEDs). It plays a vital role either in destroying the suspicious object or making them non-functional by generating the gas pressure on burning of propellant against the water column inside the barrel, Present work is focused on characterisation,numerical solution such as deformation; strain; stress using FEM(Finite Element Method), design qualification, performance and evaluation of power cartridge for disruptor application. Experimental trials for pressure-time(P-t) measurement in closed vessel(CV), various electrical parameters like all fire current(AFC), no fire current(NFC) and ignition delay have been measured. Further, mechanical properties for brass material have been determined. An attempt has been made to characterise the power cartridge by FEM and carrying out the experiments for water-jet application.展开更多
The demand for high-performance,yet eco-friendly materials is increasing on all scales from small applications in the car industry,instrument or furniture manufacturing to greater dimensions like floorings,balcony fur...The demand for high-performance,yet eco-friendly materials is increasing on all scales from small applications in the car industry,instrument or furniture manufacturing to greater dimensions like floorings,balcony furnishings and even construction.Wood offers a good choice on all of these scales and can be modified and improved in many different ways.In this study,two common European hardwood species,Beech(Fagus sylvatica L.)and Ash(Fraxinus excelsior L.)were densified in radial direction by thermo-mechanical treatment and the densified product was investigated in an extensive characterisation series to determine all relevant mechanical properties.Compression in the three main directions(longitudinal,tangential,radial)and tension perpendicular to the grain(tangential,radial)were tested and compared to reference specimens with native density.Strength and modulus of elasticity were determined in all tests.In addition,a Life Cycle Assessment was carried out to evaluate the environmental impact associated to the densification process.The experimental investigations showed that strength and stiffness of hardwood in the longitudinal and tangential directions improve significantly by radial densification,whereas some properties in the radial direction decrease.The Life Cycle Assessment showed that artificial wood drying has higher impact than wood densification.Furthermore,the transport distance of the raw material highly influences the environmental impact of the final densified product.The paper then also offers an overview of possible applications in structural timber construction.Densified hardwood is a viable option as local reinforcement,where high compressive or tensile strength is needed.The wood densification process offers an alternative to the use of carbon-intense steel components or hardwoods from tropical forests.展开更多
In this work, membrane evaluation, gas permeation properties and characterisation have been presented. A silica composite membrane was prepared, characterized and used for the permeation tests with four carrier gases ...In this work, membrane evaluation, gas permeation properties and characterisation have been presented. A silica composite membrane was prepared, characterized and used for the permeation tests with four carrier gases to determine the most suitable carrier gas for enhancing the analysis of esterification product with gas chromatograph. The carrier gases used for the permeation tests were carbon dioxide (CO2), argon (Ar), helium (He) and nitrogen (N2). The permeation analysis was carried out between the gauge pressure range of 0.10 - 1.00 bar and temperature of 60℃. The gas flow rate was found to increase with respect to gauge pressure. The order of the gas flow rate with respect to the gauge pressure was Ar > CO2 > He > N2. The surface morphology and elemental composition of the membrane were analysed using scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive analysis of x-ray (the Zeiss EVO LS10). The SEM results exhibited a defect-free surface while the EDAX results identified different elements on the spectra including titanium (Ti), silicon (Si) and oxygen (O). Liquid nitrogen adsorption method (Quantachrome 2013 model) was used for the surface area and pore size distribution analysis. The Brunauer-Emmette-Teller (BET) surface area results of the 5th and 6th dip-coated membranes were 1.497 and 0.253 m2/g respectively, while the Barrette-Joyner-Halender (BJH) curves gave a pore size of 4.184 and 4.180 nm respectively for the 5th and 6th dip-coated membranes indicating a mesoporous structure. The BET curve exhibited a type IV isotherm. The BJH curve of the 6th dip-coated membrane showed a significant reduction in flow rate after the modification process. The membrane recorded a permeance in the range of to . The permeance relationship with the inverse square root of the gas molecular weight showed a linear proportionality with the flow of carrier gases confirming Knudsen flow mechanism of gas transport.展开更多
Taro （Colocasia esculenta L. Schott） is an important underutilised crop in South Africa, East Africa and Indonesia. Three taro landraces, namely, Dumbe Lomfula （wild）, KwaNgwanase and Umbumbulu, were collected fro...Taro （Colocasia esculenta L. Schott） is an important underutilised crop in South Africa, East Africa and Indonesia. Three taro landraces, namely, Dumbe Lomfula （wild）, KwaNgwanase and Umbumbulu, were collected from two locations in KwaZulu-Natal （KZN）, South Africa, and planted at two locations, Pietermaritzburg （KZN） and Roodeplaat, Pretoria. Ago-morphological characterisation of vegetative and corm characteristics were done four months after planting and at harvest, respectively. Sampling for DNA fingerprinting using five SSR primers was done using leaf material four months after planting. Agro-morphological characterisation was useful in showing differences between the wild landrace and the two cultivated landraces, as well as identification of dasheen and eddoe types. SSR primer characterisation showed that despite significant morphological difference, the wild Dumbe Lomfula and Umbumbulu landraces were closely related but different from the KwaNgwanase landrace. Although landraces showed great morphological variation, this did not necessarily imply genetic variation. It is concluded that SSR primers are more useful for characterising taro landraces.展开更多
The synthesis and comprehensive analysis of nitrogen-doped zinc oxide thin films grown from a compound precursor of zinc acetate and ammonium acetate has been reported. The precursor was processed in different ratios ...The synthesis and comprehensive analysis of nitrogen-doped zinc oxide thin films grown from a compound precursor of zinc acetate and ammonium acetate has been reported. The precursor was processed in different ratios of the zinc acetate-ammonium acetate additives, and each combination was used to deposit a thin film using metalorganic chemical vapour deposition (MOCVD) method. The produced thin films were characterised using Rutherford backscattering (RBS) spectroscopy, uv-visible spectrometry, x-ray diffractometry, four point probe measurements and optical microscopy. The deposited thin films showed a fairly consistent zinc:oxygen:nitrogen ratio of 4.4:3.7:1, the film structures were quasicrystalline and the sheet resistivities were high, while other familiar characteristics like optical transmittance, bandgap, thermal stability, etc. were maintained in the grown films. Applications in device fabrication and active sensor devices were hence envisaged as the emergent potentials of the thin films.展开更多
In this study, the polycondensation products of a diamine anthraquinone (1,4-diamino anthraquinone) and some aliphatic diacids with different methylene numbers were synthesised. Their UV-visible spectroscopy and therm...In this study, the polycondensation products of a diamine anthraquinone (1,4-diamino anthraquinone) and some aliphatic diacids with different methylene numbers were synthesised. Their UV-visible spectroscopy and thermal properties were then characterised. The synthesis was achieved by reacting equimolar solutions of the amine and the acid halides. The structure and thermal properties of the products were characterised. FT-IR Spectra of all the three products revealed the formation of amide due to the presence of strong bands at 1565 and 3390 cm?1 assignable to C=O stretching and N-H vibrations. Differential Scanning Calorimetry revealed high melting exotherms for the products. Thermogravimetry revealed moderate thermal stabilities for Poly NAM and Poly NAS and low thermal stability for Poly NAA which indicated 5.9%, 7.1% and 61.2% weight losses at 285℃, 285℃ and 374℃ for the three products respectively. The wavelengths of maximum absorbance for the dye samples are 601.5, 591 and 589 nm respectively with absorptivity coefficients (a1cm1% ) of 11640000, 11610000 and 11560000 respectively.展开更多
The untreated effluents generated by hospital activities contribute to the dissemination of pathogenic germs and multi-resistant bacteria, thus presenting a great potential danger for health and the environment. The o...The untreated effluents generated by hospital activities contribute to the dissemination of pathogenic germs and multi-resistant bacteria, thus presenting a great potential danger for health and the environment. The objective of this study was to evaluate the microbiological and physico-chemical quality of the effluents of the Yaoundé University Hospital Centre and their impact on the environment. It was a prospective and analytical study on three sites where hospital effluents from the intensive care unit (Station A), the upstream of the wastewater treatment plant (Station B), and the gynaecology, surgery and hospitalisation departments (Station C) were sampled. Samples were collected in sterile glass bottles for bacteriological analyses and polyethylene bottles for physico-chemical analyses. The bacteriological parameters measured showed that the density of the bacterial species sought was very high at Station B with a predominance of the species Escherichia coli (57.36%). At Station A, total coliforms were very abundant (50.12%) and at Station C, the genus Pseudomonas was predominant (14.69%). Bacteria of the genus Streptococcus were represented by three species, namely: Streptococcus agalactiae, Streptococcus faecalis, and Streptococcus pneumoniae. The Pseudomonas genus was also represented by 3 species, namely Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Pseudomonas maltophilia and Pseudomonas putida. The physico-chemical parameters showed that apart from temperature and conductivity, which were in compliance with the standards, the other had values higher than these standards. This study shows that untreated hospital effluent contains most of the bacteria involved in community, nosocomial infections and would be a potential source of risk to the surrounding population.展开更多
A Zinc(II) complex of hexamethylenetetramine was prepared as a single source precursor and used to deposit zinc oxynitride thin films. The thin films were deposited on soda-lime glass substrates using the Metal Organi...A Zinc(II) complex of hexamethylenetetramine was prepared as a single source precursor and used to deposit zinc oxynitride thin films. The thin films were deposited on soda-lime glass substrates using the Metal Organic Chemical Vapour Deposition (MOCVD) technique at the deposition temperature of 370°C and 390°C, respectively. The Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to determine the functional groups in the precursor, with stretching frequency for O-H, N-H, and C-H observed. The deposited films were characterized using UV-Visible Spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Elemental diffraction X-ray (EDX), and X-ray Diffractometer (XRD). A direct bandgap of 3.15 eV and 3.18 eV was obtained from the film deposited at 370°C and 390°C, respectively, using the Envelope Method. In comparison, a bandgap of 3.19 eV and 3.21 eV was obtained using the absorption spectrum fitting (ASF) method. The SEM revealed that the film is homogeneous, dense, and compact, composed of cluster grains. The EDX confirmed the presence of Zinc, Nitrogen and Oxygen. The X-ray Diffraction indicated the polycrystalline nature of the film.展开更多
A new bisethyldithionetetrathiafulvalene (ET) derivative was synthesised. The cyclic voltammogram comparison of asymmetric hydromethyl bisethyldithionetetrathiafulvalene (HMET) and ET was made. The single crystal of c...A new bisethyldithionetetrathiafulvalene (ET) derivative was synthesised. The cyclic voltammogram comparison of asymmetric hydromethyl bisethyldithionetetrathiafulvalene (HMET) and ET was made. The single crystal of charge transfer complex HMETI(X) was obtained and characterised. The conductivity of the single crystal was measured between room temperature and liquid nitrogen temperature. This single crystal is a semiconductor in the liquid nitrogen temperature range.展开更多
Cordierite is a promising low-k material in mi cr oelectronic and packaging industries. When it is co-fired with the metal for re alising the multilayer circuits, temperature should be low enough to prevent the meltin...Cordierite is a promising low-k material in mi cr oelectronic and packaging industries. When it is co-fired with the metal for re alising the multilayer circuits, temperature should be low enough to prevent the melting and/or oxidising of the metal. However, this temperature is usually too low to sinter cordierite. Low melting point glass, therefore, is added to the s toichiometric cordierite to lower the sintering temperature through a liquid-si ntering process. In this research work, cordierite-based glass ceramics tapes were prepared by t ape casting from suspensions containing different solids loading and different m ean particle sizes. The optimal experimental conditions for obtaining homogenous green tapes were determined by varying the type and concentration of dispersant s and binders, the solids loading as well as the particle sizes of both cordieri te and glass. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Hg porosimetry were used to characterise the green tapes. The results showed that high values of solids vol ume fractions and of the size ratio between the mean particle sizes of glass and cordierite powders favour the obtaining of homogeneous and high dense substrate s. The dielectric constant of the sintered bodies at 1 100 ℃ was around 5 and t he dissipation factor was about 0.01 at 1 MHz.展开更多
文摘Throughout the SMILE mission the satellite will be bombarded by radiation which gradually damages the focal plane devices and degrades their performance.In order to understand the changes of the CCD370s within the soft X-ray Imager,an initial characterisation of the devices has been carried out to give a baseline performance level.Three CCDs have been characterised,the two flight devices and the flight spa re.This has been carried out at the Open University in a bespo ke cleanroom measure ment facility.The results show that there is a cluster of bright pixels in the flight spa re which increases in size with tempe rature.However at the nominal ope rating tempe rature(-120℃) it is within the procure ment specifications.Overall,the devices meet the specifications when ope rating at -120℃ in 6 × 6 binned frame transfer science mode.The se rial charge transfer inefficiency degrades with temperature in full frame mode.However any charge losses are recovered when binning/frame transfer is implemented.
文摘Meteorological droughts occur when there is deficiency in rainfall;i.e. rainfall availability is below some acclaimed normal values. Hence, the greater challenge is to be able to obtain suitable methods for assessing drought occurrence, its onset or initiation and termination. Thus, an attempt was made in this paper to evaluate the performance of Standardised Precipitation Index (SPI) and Standardised Precipitation Anomaly Index (SPAI) to characterise drought in Northern Nigeria for purposes of comparison and eventual adoption of probable candidate index for the development of an Early Warning System. The findings indicated that despite the fact that the annual timescale may be long, it can be employed to obtain information on the temporal evolution of drought especially, regional behaviour. However, monthly timescale can be more appropriate if emphasis is on evaluating the effects of drought in situations relating to water supply, agriculture and groundwater abstractions. The SPAI can be employed for periodic rainfall time series though;it accentuates drought signatures and may not necessarily dampen high fluctuations due to implications of high climatic variability considering the stochastic nature and state transition of drought phenomena. On the other hand, the temporal evolution of SPI and SPAI were not coherent at different temporal accumulations with differences in fluctuations. However, despite the differences between the SPI and SPAI, generally at some timescales, for instance, 6-month accumulation, both spatial and temporal distributions of drought characteristics were seemingly consistent. In view of the observed shortcomings of both indices, especially the SPI, the Standardised Nonstationary Precipitation Index (SnsPI) should be looked into and too, other indexes that take into consideration the implications of global warming by incorporating potential evapotranspiration may be deemed more suitable for drought studies in Northern Nigeria.
文摘The filler-bitumen interaction mechanism is one of the most essential phases for comprehending the asphalt mixture's performance.However,despite numerous studies,in-depth knowledge of filler-bitumen reciprocity at a microscale level is yet to be ascertained.The goal of this research is to gain a better understanding of the fillerbitumen microscale interaction in terms of the synergy and coaction between the physicochemical and rheological performance of mastics due to filler inclusions.The rheological properties of two sustainable mastics,dolomite powder(DP)and lime kiln dust(LKD),together with a neat PEN 60/70 binder,were analysed based on a temperature sweep at elevated temperature conditions.Meanwhile,frequency sweep and multiple stress creep recovery(MSCR)tests were also conducted at pavement serviceability temperature using the dynamic shear rheometer(DSR).Physicochemical tests using a scanning electron microscope(SEM)and energy dispersive X-rays(EDX)were conducted to analyse the impact of parameters such as particle shape,grain size,texture,and chemical compositions.The DSR test results showcased how the incorporation of fillers in asphalt binder considerably improved the performance of the binder in terms of rutting and fatigue.Likewise,its strain and nonrecoverable compliance parameters were substantially reduced at higher filler and binder concentrations.Physical filler attributes of low rigden voids(R.V),high fineness modulus(FM),and high specific surface area(SSA)led to greater interfacial stiffness and elasticity in LKD mastics compared to DP mastics at different loading frequencies and temperature levels.The SEM/EDX results also indicated that the elemental calcium and carbon composition of each filler component,together with its grain morphology,strongly influenced its rheological performance.
文摘Overhanging rock slopes(steeper than 90°) are typically avoided in rock engineering design, particularly where the scale of the slope exceeds the scale of fracturing present in the rock mass. This paper highlights an integrated approach of designing overhanging rock slopes where the relative dimensions of the slope exceed the scale of fracturing and the rock mass failure needs to be considered rather than kinematic release of individual blocks. The key to the method is a simplified limit equilibrium(LE) tool that was used for the support design and analysis of a multi-faceted overhanging rock slope. The overhanging slopes required complex geometries with constantly changing orientations. The overhanging rock varied in height from 30 m to 66 m. Geomechanical modelling combined with discrete fracture network(DFN)representation of the rock mass was used to validate the rock mass strength assumptions and the failure mechanism assumed in the LE model. The advantage of the simplified LE method is that buttress and support design iterations(along with sensitivity analysis of design parameters) can be completed for various cross-sections along the proposed overhanging rock sections in an efficient manner, compared to the more time-intensive, sophisticated methods that were used for the initial validation. The method described presents the development of this design tool and assumptions made for a specific overhanging rock slope design. Other locations will have different geological conditions that can control the potential behaviour of rock slopes, however, the approach presented can be applied as a general guiding design principle for overhanging rock cut slope.
基金This research was financially supported by the grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China （No. 31071262） and the Shandong Science and Technology Department （No. 032050102）.
文摘C-type lysozyme genes （Lyzls） belong to the class of lysozymes and are highly expressed in the testis and epididymis. The members Lyzl4 and Spaca3 have been reported to play a role in sperm-egg binding and fertilisation in mice. However, the function of the remaining two mouse c-type lysozyme genes, Lyzll and Lyzl6, is still not clear. In the present study, we analysed the tissue expression and androgen-dependent expression of mouse c-type lysozyme genes and the possible contribution of human recombinant LYZL6 （rLYZL6） to immunity. The expression of Lyzlswas detected by RT-PCR, Western blots, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. The bacteriolytic activity of rLYZL6 was analysed by a colony-forming assay. In mice, the expression of Lyzlgenes was mainly in the testis and epididymis in a developmentally regulated manner and androgen- or testicular factor-regulated manner. Immunodetection revealed the presence of LYZL6 protein in primary spermatocytes and round spermatids of the testis and on the post-acrosomal area and midpiece of mature epididymal spermatozoa. The rLYZL6 protein exhibited antibacterial activity. From the results, Lyzls may play a role in mitochondrial function of spermatozoa and LYZL6 may contribute to the innate immunity of the male genital tract.
文摘The feasibility of durian tree sawdust (DTS), coconut coir (CC) and oil palm empty fruit bunch (EFB) as low-cost biosorbents for the removal of Cu(II), Pb(II) and Zn(II) ions from aqueous solutions was investigated. The effects of solution pH and initial metal concentration on adsorption capacity were examined in batch experiments. The affinity and the adsorption capacity of DTS, CC and EFB were evaluated. The adsorption behaviour of Cu(II), Pb(II) and Zn(II) ions onto DTS, CC and EFB was described using Freundlich and Langmuir isotherm models. The separation factor (RL) analysis suggests that the removal of metal ions onto three agricultural wastes studied was favourable. The maximum adsorption capacities (Q) estimated from the Langmuir isotherm model for Cu(II), Pb(II) and Zn(II) were 18.42, 20.37 and 22.78 mg/g for DTS, 18.38, 37.04 and 24.39 mg/g for CC, and 26.95, 37.59 and 21.19 mg/g for EFB, respectively. The characterisation studies were carried out using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectrometer (EDX) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer (FTIR). The surface morphology of the biosorbents changed significantly following interaction with metal ions. The primary adsorption mechanism was complexation between metal ions and binding sites of biosorbents. Both hydroxyl and amine groups are the main binding sites in DTS, CC and EFB.
文摘The efficacy of coconut tree sawdust (CTS), eggshell (ES) and sugarcane bagasse (SB) as alternative low-cost biosorbents for the removal of Cu(II), Pb(II) and Zn(II) ions from aqueous solutions was investigated. Batch adsorption studies were carried out to evaluate the effects of solution pH and initial metal concentration on adsorption capacity. The optimum biosorption condition was found at pH 6.0, 0.1 g biomass dosage and at 90 min equilibrium time. The adsorption data were fitted to the Freundlich and Langmuir isotherm models. The adsorption capacity and affinity of CTS, ES and SB were evaluated. The Freundlich constant (n) and separation factor (RL) values suggest that the metal ions were favourably adsorbed onto biosorbents. The maximum adsorption capacities (Q) estimated from the Langmuir isotherm model for Cu(II), Pb(II) and Zn(II) were 3.89, 25.00 and 23.81 mg/g for CTS, 34.48, 90.90 and 35.71 mg/g for ES, and 3.65, 21.28 and 40.00 mg/g for SB, respectively. The characterisation studies were performed using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectrometer (EDX) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer (FTIR). Interaction with metal ions led to the formation of discrete aggregates on the biosorbents surface. The metal ions bound to the active sites of the biosorbents through either electrostatic attraction or complexation mechanism.
基金Supported by Huaiyin Institute of Technology Young Talent Project of Science Foundation(HGQN0707)
文摘This thesis gives overview of the connotation of rural spatial structure,indicating 4 kinds of elements,namely nodus,passage,region and flow.Their spatial arrangement and interaction lead to the corresponding rural spatial structure.This thesis also offers panorama of the related theoretical progress of intra-county and rural areas,indicating that the research theories of regional spatial structure at present,mainly focus on macroscopic region or urban space,but there is shortage of researches on county spatial structure,especially microscopic rural spatial structure.On such basis,4 kinds of theoretical models and characteristics of regional spatial structure have been introduced.We build analysis index system of rural structural elements on the basis of 4 elements,and conduct rural spatial structural analysis,taking Jinhu County as an example.The result shows that rural spatial structure in Jinhu County is still at stage of nucleus-cluster development and rural system is not so sound.In addition,the passage network system of infrastructure has not taken shape,and county economy presents diseconomy of scale.The spatial interaction and association among towns in Jinhu County are weak.The characteristic analysis model of spatial structure in this research can objectively reflect regional characteristic of spatial structure.
文摘Rock types,pore structures and permeability are essential petrophysical outputs,and they contribute considerably to the highest degree of uncertainty in reservoir characterisation.These factors have a strong influence on exploration and field development decisions.Core analysis is the best approach for estimating permeability,assigning rock types and characterising pore networks.Wireline logs are the most often employed method for estimating the parameters at each data point of reservoirs since there are more un-cored wells than cored wells.Artificial intelligence,on the other hand,is gaining popularity in the geosciences due to the ever-increasing complexity and volume of available subsurface data.This is also obvious in the demand for faster and more accurate interpretations in order to identify reservoir characteristics in increasingly difficult and complicated petroliferous basins.Artificial Neural Networks and Self-Organizing Maps are examples of machine learning approaches that can be used in both supervised and unsupervised modes for modelling and prediction.Eocene carbonates of Mukta oilfield are the major pay rocks of strong geological heterogeneity in terms of their porosity and permeability relationship with pore structures.This paper outlines a novel method of rock fabric classification,pore structure characterization,flow unit classification and robust reservoir permeability modelling based on an integrated approach that incorporates core measurements,log data and machine learning techniques.The pore structure has been characterised by the combination of conventional core,capillary pressure and nuclear magnetic resonance data.Artificial neural network has added an adequate benefit in accurate permeability modelling by utilizing the concepts of rock classifications and hydraulic flow units.
文摘Power Cartridges are pyrotechnic devices where hot combustion gases utilized to do mechanical work for disruption of suspected Improvised Explosive Devices(IEDs). It plays a vital role either in destroying the suspicious object or making them non-functional by generating the gas pressure on burning of propellant against the water column inside the barrel, Present work is focused on characterisation,numerical solution such as deformation; strain; stress using FEM(Finite Element Method), design qualification, performance and evaluation of power cartridge for disruptor application. Experimental trials for pressure-time(P-t) measurement in closed vessel(CV), various electrical parameters like all fire current(AFC), no fire current(NFC) and ignition delay have been measured. Further, mechanical properties for brass material have been determined. An attempt has been made to characterise the power cartridge by FEM and carrying out the experiments for water-jet application.
文摘The demand for high-performance,yet eco-friendly materials is increasing on all scales from small applications in the car industry,instrument or furniture manufacturing to greater dimensions like floorings,balcony furnishings and even construction.Wood offers a good choice on all of these scales and can be modified and improved in many different ways.In this study,two common European hardwood species,Beech(Fagus sylvatica L.)and Ash(Fraxinus excelsior L.)were densified in radial direction by thermo-mechanical treatment and the densified product was investigated in an extensive characterisation series to determine all relevant mechanical properties.Compression in the three main directions(longitudinal,tangential,radial)and tension perpendicular to the grain(tangential,radial)were tested and compared to reference specimens with native density.Strength and modulus of elasticity were determined in all tests.In addition,a Life Cycle Assessment was carried out to evaluate the environmental impact associated to the densification process.The experimental investigations showed that strength and stiffness of hardwood in the longitudinal and tangential directions improve significantly by radial densification,whereas some properties in the radial direction decrease.The Life Cycle Assessment showed that artificial wood drying has higher impact than wood densification.Furthermore,the transport distance of the raw material highly influences the environmental impact of the final densified product.The paper then also offers an overview of possible applications in structural timber construction.Densified hardwood is a viable option as local reinforcement,where high compressive or tensile strength is needed.The wood densification process offers an alternative to the use of carbon-intense steel components or hardwoods from tropical forests.
文摘In this work, membrane evaluation, gas permeation properties and characterisation have been presented. A silica composite membrane was prepared, characterized and used for the permeation tests with four carrier gases to determine the most suitable carrier gas for enhancing the analysis of esterification product with gas chromatograph. The carrier gases used for the permeation tests were carbon dioxide (CO2), argon (Ar), helium (He) and nitrogen (N2). The permeation analysis was carried out between the gauge pressure range of 0.10 - 1.00 bar and temperature of 60℃. The gas flow rate was found to increase with respect to gauge pressure. The order of the gas flow rate with respect to the gauge pressure was Ar > CO2 > He > N2. The surface morphology and elemental composition of the membrane were analysed using scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive analysis of x-ray (the Zeiss EVO LS10). The SEM results exhibited a defect-free surface while the EDAX results identified different elements on the spectra including titanium (Ti), silicon (Si) and oxygen (O). Liquid nitrogen adsorption method (Quantachrome 2013 model) was used for the surface area and pore size distribution analysis. The Brunauer-Emmette-Teller (BET) surface area results of the 5th and 6th dip-coated membranes were 1.497 and 0.253 m2/g respectively, while the Barrette-Joyner-Halender (BJH) curves gave a pore size of 4.184 and 4.180 nm respectively for the 5th and 6th dip-coated membranes indicating a mesoporous structure. The BET curve exhibited a type IV isotherm. The BJH curve of the 6th dip-coated membrane showed a significant reduction in flow rate after the modification process. The membrane recorded a permeance in the range of to . The permeance relationship with the inverse square root of the gas molecular weight showed a linear proportionality with the flow of carrier gases confirming Knudsen flow mechanism of gas transport.
文摘Taro （Colocasia esculenta L. Schott） is an important underutilised crop in South Africa, East Africa and Indonesia. Three taro landraces, namely, Dumbe Lomfula （wild）, KwaNgwanase and Umbumbulu, were collected from two locations in KwaZulu-Natal （KZN）, South Africa, and planted at two locations, Pietermaritzburg （KZN） and Roodeplaat, Pretoria. Ago-morphological characterisation of vegetative and corm characteristics were done four months after planting and at harvest, respectively. Sampling for DNA fingerprinting using five SSR primers was done using leaf material four months after planting. Agro-morphological characterisation was useful in showing differences between the wild landrace and the two cultivated landraces, as well as identification of dasheen and eddoe types. SSR primer characterisation showed that despite significant morphological difference, the wild Dumbe Lomfula and Umbumbulu landraces were closely related but different from the KwaNgwanase landrace. Although landraces showed great morphological variation, this did not necessarily imply genetic variation. It is concluded that SSR primers are more useful for characterising taro landraces.
文摘The synthesis and comprehensive analysis of nitrogen-doped zinc oxide thin films grown from a compound precursor of zinc acetate and ammonium acetate has been reported. The precursor was processed in different ratios of the zinc acetate-ammonium acetate additives, and each combination was used to deposit a thin film using metalorganic chemical vapour deposition (MOCVD) method. The produced thin films were characterised using Rutherford backscattering (RBS) spectroscopy, uv-visible spectrometry, x-ray diffractometry, four point probe measurements and optical microscopy. The deposited thin films showed a fairly consistent zinc:oxygen:nitrogen ratio of 4.4:3.7:1, the film structures were quasicrystalline and the sheet resistivities were high, while other familiar characteristics like optical transmittance, bandgap, thermal stability, etc. were maintained in the grown films. Applications in device fabrication and active sensor devices were hence envisaged as the emergent potentials of the thin films.
文摘In this study, the polycondensation products of a diamine anthraquinone (1,4-diamino anthraquinone) and some aliphatic diacids with different methylene numbers were synthesised. Their UV-visible spectroscopy and thermal properties were then characterised. The synthesis was achieved by reacting equimolar solutions of the amine and the acid halides. The structure and thermal properties of the products were characterised. FT-IR Spectra of all the three products revealed the formation of amide due to the presence of strong bands at 1565 and 3390 cm?1 assignable to C=O stretching and N-H vibrations. Differential Scanning Calorimetry revealed high melting exotherms for the products. Thermogravimetry revealed moderate thermal stabilities for Poly NAM and Poly NAS and low thermal stability for Poly NAA which indicated 5.9%, 7.1% and 61.2% weight losses at 285℃, 285℃ and 374℃ for the three products respectively. The wavelengths of maximum absorbance for the dye samples are 601.5, 591 and 589 nm respectively with absorptivity coefficients (a1cm1% ) of 11640000, 11610000 and 11560000 respectively.
文摘The untreated effluents generated by hospital activities contribute to the dissemination of pathogenic germs and multi-resistant bacteria, thus presenting a great potential danger for health and the environment. The objective of this study was to evaluate the microbiological and physico-chemical quality of the effluents of the Yaoundé University Hospital Centre and their impact on the environment. It was a prospective and analytical study on three sites where hospital effluents from the intensive care unit (Station A), the upstream of the wastewater treatment plant (Station B), and the gynaecology, surgery and hospitalisation departments (Station C) were sampled. Samples were collected in sterile glass bottles for bacteriological analyses and polyethylene bottles for physico-chemical analyses. The bacteriological parameters measured showed that the density of the bacterial species sought was very high at Station B with a predominance of the species Escherichia coli (57.36%). At Station A, total coliforms were very abundant (50.12%) and at Station C, the genus Pseudomonas was predominant (14.69%). Bacteria of the genus Streptococcus were represented by three species, namely: Streptococcus agalactiae, Streptococcus faecalis, and Streptococcus pneumoniae. The Pseudomonas genus was also represented by 3 species, namely Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Pseudomonas maltophilia and Pseudomonas putida. The physico-chemical parameters showed that apart from temperature and conductivity, which were in compliance with the standards, the other had values higher than these standards. This study shows that untreated hospital effluent contains most of the bacteria involved in community, nosocomial infections and would be a potential source of risk to the surrounding population.
文摘A Zinc(II) complex of hexamethylenetetramine was prepared as a single source precursor and used to deposit zinc oxynitride thin films. The thin films were deposited on soda-lime glass substrates using the Metal Organic Chemical Vapour Deposition (MOCVD) technique at the deposition temperature of 370°C and 390°C, respectively. The Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to determine the functional groups in the precursor, with stretching frequency for O-H, N-H, and C-H observed. The deposited films were characterized using UV-Visible Spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Elemental diffraction X-ray (EDX), and X-ray Diffractometer (XRD). A direct bandgap of 3.15 eV and 3.18 eV was obtained from the film deposited at 370°C and 390°C, respectively, using the Envelope Method. In comparison, a bandgap of 3.19 eV and 3.21 eV was obtained using the absorption spectrum fitting (ASF) method. The SEM revealed that the film is homogeneous, dense, and compact, composed of cluster grains. The EDX confirmed the presence of Zinc, Nitrogen and Oxygen. The X-ray Diffraction indicated the polycrystalline nature of the film.
文摘A new bisethyldithionetetrathiafulvalene (ET) derivative was synthesised. The cyclic voltammogram comparison of asymmetric hydromethyl bisethyldithionetetrathiafulvalene (HMET) and ET was made. The single crystal of charge transfer complex HMETI(X) was obtained and characterised. The conductivity of the single crystal was measured between room temperature and liquid nitrogen temperature. This single crystal is a semiconductor in the liquid nitrogen temperature range.
文摘Cordierite is a promising low-k material in mi cr oelectronic and packaging industries. When it is co-fired with the metal for re alising the multilayer circuits, temperature should be low enough to prevent the melting and/or oxidising of the metal. However, this temperature is usually too low to sinter cordierite. Low melting point glass, therefore, is added to the s toichiometric cordierite to lower the sintering temperature through a liquid-si ntering process. In this research work, cordierite-based glass ceramics tapes were prepared by t ape casting from suspensions containing different solids loading and different m ean particle sizes. The optimal experimental conditions for obtaining homogenous green tapes were determined by varying the type and concentration of dispersant s and binders, the solids loading as well as the particle sizes of both cordieri te and glass. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Hg porosimetry were used to characterise the green tapes. The results showed that high values of solids vol ume fractions and of the size ratio between the mean particle sizes of glass and cordierite powders favour the obtaining of homogeneous and high dense substrate s. The dielectric constant of the sintered bodies at 1 100 ℃ was around 5 and t he dissipation factor was about 0.01 at 1 MHz.
